Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips &Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty
OF A O AL
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21=inch Rotary Mower- Model 420 Series
iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
Warning: Thisunit is equippedwithaninternalcombustionengineandshouldnot beusedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brush-
coveredor grass-coveredlandunlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwitha sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbemaintainedineffectiveworkingorderby the operator.In theStateof Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode).Otherstatesmayhavesimilarlaws.Federallawsapplyonfederallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO.Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio44136-0019.
PRINTEDIN U.S.A.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
FORMNO.769-02336
01/11/2006
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower, it will help you assemble,
prepare, and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Table of
Slope Gauge ....................................................... 3
Safe Operation Practices ................................... 4
Setup and Adjustment ....................................... 6
Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................. 8
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ......................... 10
Contents
Trouble Shooting .............................................. 12
Safety Labels .................................................... 13
Parts List ........................................................... 14
Warranty ............................................................ 16
Characteristicsandfeaturesdiscussedand/orillustratedinthis manualmaynot beapplicableto all models.MTDLLCreservesthe rightto changeproductspecifications,
designsand equipmentwithoutnoticeand withoutincurringobligation.
Finding and Recording Model Number
Before you begin to assemble the mower,please locatethe
model plate on the equipment andcopy the informationto the
sample model plate providedto the right. Youcan locatethe
model plate by standing at the operating positionand looking
down at the rear of the deck. This information will be neces-
sary to use the manufacturer'sweb site, to obtain assistance
from the CustomerSupport Department,or when contacting
an authorizedservice dealer.
Model Number Serial Number
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
330=220=4683
,..www.mtdproducts.com 800-800-731 0..
Customer Support
Please DO NOT return the unit to the retailer from which it was purchased without first
contacting Customer Support.
Ifyou have difficulty assembling this product or haveany questionsregarding the controls, operation, or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek helpfrom the experts. Choosefrom the options below:
1. Visit www.mtdproducts.com. Click on the Service & Support menu option.
Ser_dce 8_SuFpo_
Product Registration
Con_ec_ Us _riv_cy Po_y
2. Phone a Customer Support Representativeat 1-800-800-7310.
3. The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance,power-rating,specifica-
tions, warranty and service. Pleaserefer tothe engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packedseparately with
your unit,for more information.
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I
15°
WARNING
This symbolpoints
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
notfollowed,could
endangerthe personal
i safety and/or property
I ofyourselfand others.
Readandfollow all
instructionsinthis
manualbeforeat-
temptingto operate
i this machine.Failure
I to complywiththese
instructionsmay result
i in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
i HEED ITS WARNING!
Your Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
_understand
ano follow the warnings
and instructions
inthis manual
and on the machine.
WARNING: Engine Exhaust,some of its constituents, andcertain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals knownto State of Californiato cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.
DANGER: This machinewas built to be operatedaccording to the rules for safe operationin this
manual.As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury.This machine is capable of amputatinghands andfeet andthrowing objects.
Failureto observethe followingsafety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
Children
Tragicaccidentscanoccur ifoperatorisnotalert to presence
of children.Childrenare oftenattractedto mowerand mowing
activity.Theydonot understandthe dangers.Neverassume
thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
1. Keepchildrenoutof the mowingareaand underwatchful
careof a responsibleadultotherthanthe operator.
2. Bealert andturn moweroff if a childentersthearea.
3. Beforeand whilemovingbackwards,look behindanddown
forsmallchildren.
4. Useextremecarewhenapproachingblindcorners,
doorways,shrubs,trees,or otherobjectsthat mayobscure
yourvisionof a child whomayrun intothe mower.
5. Keepchildrenawayfromhotor runningengines.Theycan
sufferburnsfroma hotmuffler.
6. Neverallowchildrenunder14 yearsoldto operatea power
mower.Children14yearsoldand overshouldreadand
understandoperationinstructionsandsafetyrulesinthis
manualandshouldbetrainedandsupervisedbya parent.
General Operation
1. Readthis operator'smanualcarefullyin its entiretybefore
attemptingto assemblethis machine.Read,understand,
andfollowall instructionsonthe machineandin the
manual(s)beforeoperation.Becompletelyfamiliarwith
thecontrolsandthe properuseof this machinebefore
operatingit. Keepthis manualin a safeplaceforfuture
and regularreferenceand for orderingreplacementparts.
2. Thismachineis a precisionpieceof powerequipment,
nota plaything.Therefore,exerciseextremecautionat all
times.Yourunithas beendesignedto performonejob: to
mowgrass. Do notuse it for any otherpurpose.
3. Neverallow childrenunder 14yearsold to operatethis
machine.Children 14yearsold and overshould readand
understandthe instructionsinthis manualandshould
betrainedand supervisedby a parent.Onlyresponsible
individualswho arefamiliar withthese rulesof safe
operationshould beallowedto usethis machine.
4. Thoroughlyinspectthe areawherethe equipmentisto
beused. Removeall stones,sticks,wire, bones,toys
andotherforeignobjects, whichcouldbe trippedover or
pickedup andthrownbythe blade.Thrownobjects can
causeseriouspersonalinjury.Planyour mowingpattern
to avoiddischargeof materialtoward roads,sidewalks,
bystandersandthe like.Also,avoiddischargingmaterial
againsta wallor obstruction,whichmaycausedischarged
materialto ricochetback towardthe operator.
5. Tohelpavoidbladecontact ora thrownobjectinjury,
stay inoperatorzone behindhandlesand keepchildren,
bystanders,helpersand petsat least75 feetfrom mower
whileit is inoperation.Stop machineifanyoneenters
area.
6. Alwayswearsafetyglassesor safetygogglesduringopera-
tionandwhile performinganadjustmentor repairto protect
youreyes.Thrownobjectswhich ricochetcan causeserious
injuryto the eyes.
7. Wearsturdy, rough-soledworkshoesand close-fitting
slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthatcoverthe armsand
legs andsteel-toedshoesare recommended.Neveroperate
this machinein barefeet,sandals, slipperyor light-weight
(e.g.canvas)shoes.
8. Do notputhands orfeet nearrotatingpartsor undercutting
deck.Contactwithblade canamputatehandsandfeet.
9. A missingor damageddischargecovercancause blade
contactor thrownobject injuries.
10.Manyinjuriesoccuras a resultof the mowerbeing pulled
overthefoot duringa fall causedby slippingor tripping.
Do notholdonto the mowerifyouare falling;releasethe
handleimmediately.
11.Neverpullthe mowerbacktowardyou whileyouare
walking.If you must backthe mowerawayfroma wall or
obstructionfirstlook downand behindto avoidtrippingand
thenfollowthese steps:
a. Stepbackfrommowerto fully extendyourarms.
b. Be sure youare well balancedwithsurefooting.
c. Pullthe mowerbackslowly,no morethan halfway
towardyou.
d. Repeatthesestepsas needed.
12.Do notoperatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof
alcoholordrugs.
13.Do notengagetheself-propelledmechanismon unitsso
equippedwhilestartingengine.
14.The bladecontrolhandleis a safetydevice.Neverattempt
to bypassitsoperation.Doingso makesthe safetydevice
inoperativeandmayresult in personalinjurythrough
contactwiththe rotatingblade. The bladecontrolhandle
mustoperateeasily in bothdirectionsandautomatically
returnto the disengagedpositionwhenreleased.
15.Neveroperatethe mowerinwet grass. Alwaysbesure of
yourfooting. A slipand fall cancauseseriouspersonal
injury.If youfeelyou are losing yourfooting,releasethe
bladecontrolhandle immediatelyand the bladewillstop
rotatingwithinthreeseconds.
16.Mowonlyin daylightor good artificiallight.Walk,neverrun.
17.Stopthe bladewhencrossinggraveldrives, walksor roads.
18.If theequipmentshouldstartto vibrateabnormally,stopthe
engineand check immediatelyfor the cause.Vibrationis
generallya warningof trouble.
4
19.Shut theengineoff andwait untilthe bladecomesto a
completestopbefore removingthe grasscatcheror unclog-
ging thechute.
The cuttingbladecontinuesto rotatefor a fewseconds after
the engineis shutoff. Neverplaceany partof the bodyin
the bladearea untilyou are surethe blade hasstopped
rotating.
20. Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrail shield,discharge
cover,grass catcher,bladecontrolhandleor othersafety
protectivedevicesin placeand working.Neveroperate
mowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failureto do so can
resultin personalinjury.
21. Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcan causea burn.Do
nottouch.
22.Only use parts and accessoriesmadefor this machineby
manufacturer.Failureto do so can result inpersonalinjury.
23. If situationsoccurwhich are notcoveredin this manual,
usecareand goodjudgment.Contactyourdealerfor
assistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310for the nameof your
nearestdealer.
Slope Operation
Slopesare a majorfactorrelatedto slip andfallaccidents,which
can resultinsevereinjury.Operationon slopesrequiresextra
caution.If youfeel uneasyon a slope,do notmowit.Foryour
safety,usetheslopegaugeincludedas part of this manualto
measureslopesbeforeoperatingthis uniton a slopedor hilly
area.If theslopeis greaterthan 15degrees,do not mowit.
Do:
1. Mowacrossthefaceof slopes;neverup anddown.Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectiononslopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts,rocks, hiddenobjects,or bumpswhich
can causeyouto slipor trip. Tallgrass canhideobstacles.
3. Alwaysbesure of yourfooting.A slip andfall cancause
serious personalinjury.If youfeel youare losingyour
balance,releasethe bladecontrolhandleimmediately,and
the bladewill stoprotatingwithin 3 seconds.
Do Not:
1. Donot mowneardrop-offs, ditchesorembankments,you
could loseyour footingorbalance.
2. Donot mowslopesgreaterthan 15degrees asshownon
the slopegauge.
3. Donot mowon wetgrass.Unstablefootingcouldcause
slipping.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoidpersonalinjury orpropertydamage useextreme
care inhandlinggasoline.Gasolineisextremelyflammable
and thevaporsare explosive.Seriouspersonalinjurycan
occur whengasolineisspilled on yourself oryour clothes,
which canignite.
2. Wash yourskin andchangeclothesimmediately.
3. Useonly an approvedgasolinecontainer.
4. Neverfill containers insidea vehicle oron a truckor trailer
bedwitha plasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainerson the
groundawayfromyourvehicle beforefilling.
5. Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe truck ortrailer
and refuelit onthe ground.If this is notpossible,then refuel
suchequipmentona trailerwitha portablecontainer,rather
than froma gasoline dispensernozzle.
6. Keepthe nozzlein contactwiththe rimof thefuel tank or
containeropeningat all timesuntil fuelingis complete.Do
notuse a nozzlelock-opendevice.
7. Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars, pipesand othersources
of ignition.
8. Neverfuel machineindoorbecauseflammablevaporswill
accumulatein thearea.
9. Neverremovegascap oradd fuel whileengineis hot or
running. Allowengineto cool at leasttwo minutesbefore
refueling.
10.Neveroverfill fueltank. Filltankto nomorethan Y2inch
belowbottomof filler neckto providefor fuel expansion.
11.Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
12.If gasolineis spilled,wipe itoff theengineand equipment.
Moveunitto anotherarea.Wait5 minutesbeforestarting
engine.
13.Neverstorethe machineorfuel containernearanopen
flame,sparkor pilotlight as ona water heater,space
heater,furnace,clothesdryeror othergas appliances.
14.Toreducefire hazard,keepmowerfree of grass, leaves,
orother debrisbuild-up.Clean upoil orfuelspillageand
removeanyfuel soakeddebris.
15.Allowa mowerto cool at least5 minutesbeforestoring.
GeneralService:
1. Neverrun an engineindoorsorin a poorlyventilatedarea.
Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,anodorlessand
deadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertainthe
bladeandall movingparts havestopped.Disconnectthe
sparkplugwire andgroundagainstthe engineto prevent
unintendedstarting.
3. Checkthe bladeandenginemountingboltsatfrequent
intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectbladefor
damage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn)Replacebladewiththe
originalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly,listed
inthis manual."Useof partswhichdo notmeetthe original
equipmentspecificationsmayleadto improperperformance
andcompromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesare sharpandcan cut.Wrapthebladeor wear
gloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.
5. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstightto besurethe equip-
mentis insafeworkingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheir properopera-
tionregularly.
7. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stopthe engine,discon-
nectthesparkplugwire andgroundagainsttheengine.
Thoroughlyinspectthe mowerfor anydamage.Repairthe
damagebeforestartingandoperatingthe mower.
8. Neverattemptto makea wheelor cuttingheightadjustment
whiletheengineis running.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail
shieldaresubjectto wear anddamagewhichcould expose
movingparts or allowobjectsto be thrown.Forsafety
protection,frequentlycheckcomponentsandreplaceim-
mediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's(O.E.M.)
parts only,listedinthis manual."Useof parts which do
notmeetthe originalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
10.Do notchangetheenginegovernorsettingor over-revthe
engine.Thegovernorcontrolsthe maximumsafeoperating
speedof theengine.
11.Maintainor replacesafetylabels,as necessary.
12.Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.Improper
disposalof fluidsand materialscanharmtheenvironment.
5
Operation
WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions, which if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourselfand others.
Readand follow all
instructions inthis man-
ual before attemptingto
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructionsmay
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED IT'S WARNING!
YourResponsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read.
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manua
and on the machine.
NOTE:Standbehind
themowerasilyou
weregoingtooperate
it.Yourrighthandcor-
respondstotheright
i sideofthemower;your
lefthandcorresponds
totheleftsideofthe
mower.
NOTE:Yourmower
isshippedwiththe
handleinthehigher
heightposition.
NOTE:Eachendof
i thelowerhandlemust
beplacedinthesame
i relativeposition.
iMPORTANT
I
This unit is shipped
i without gasoline or
i oil inthe engine. Fill
!i up gasoline and oil
as instructedinthe
i accompanying engine
manual BEFORE
operatingyour mower.
Yourmowermaydifferslightlyfromthe illustrations
shown.
Step 1
Hardware Pack
Wing Nuts (2) Carriage Bolts (2)
1. Removeanypackingmaterialwhichmaybebetween
upperandlowerhandles.
a. Pullupand backon upperhandleas shownin
Step 1.Makecertainthe lowerhandleis seated
securelyintothe handlemountingbrackets.
b. Tightenhandknobssecuringupperhandleto
lowerhandle.Makesurethateachcarriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handle.
2. Locatehairpinclip foundin holeon the weldpinon
eachside of lowerhandle.
.
a. Removehairpinclipfromthis hole.Usinga pairof
pliers,inserthairpinclip intothe other holeon the
weldpin. Repeaton otherside.
b. Inserta carriagebolt fromthe hardwarepackinto
the upperholeonthe handlemountingbracket.
Securewithone plasticwing nut,also included
inthe hardwarepack.Repeatonother sidewith
remainingitemsfromhardwarepack.
The ropeguideis attachedto the right sideof the
upperhandle.Loosenthe wingnut whichsecuresthe
ropeguide.
a. Holdbladecontrolhandleagainstupperhandle.
b. Pullstarterropeout of the engine.Releaseblade
controlhandle.
.
c. Slipstarterropeinto ropeguide.
d. Tightenwingnut.
Insertpostoncable tiesintoholes providedon the
lowerhandle.Pullcabletie tightandtrimexcess.
F
Step 3 Step 4
6
5. An adjustingplateandthumbleverat each wheel
providescuttingheightadjustment.
a. Depresslevertowardswheel.
b. Moveit to anyof the ninepositionsfor desired
cutting height.SeeStep 5.
c. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.
6. Followstepsbelowto assemblethe grasscatcher:
a. Placebagoverframesothat itsblackplasticside
is at the bottom.
b. Slip plasticchannelof grassbagoverhooksonthe
frame.SeeStep6. All theplasticchannelsexcept
centertop of bagattachfromoutsideof frame.
c. Attachcentertop of bagfrominsideof frame.
7. Followstepsbelowto attachgrasscatcher:
a. Liftreardischargedoor.
b. Placegrasscatcheron thepivotrod. Letgo
of dischargedoorsothat it restson thegrass
catcher.SeeStep7.
To removegrasscatcher,lift reardischargedooron the
moweras shownin Step7. Liftgrasscatcherupandout,
off of the pivotrod. Releasereardischargedoorto allow
it to closerearopeningof mower.
,_ WARNING:Neveroperate mowerunless the
hookson the grass catcherarefirmly seated
on the pivotrod and the rear dischargedoor rests
firmly against top of the grass catcher.
Step 5
f
Using The Mulcher
To utilizethe mulchingfeature,lift the reardischargedoor
on the moweras showninStep 7.Liftgrasscatcherup
andout,off of the pivotrod. Releasereardischargedoor
to allow itto closerearopeningof mower.
Step 6
J
Step 7
7
uStment
CUTTING HEIGHT
Step5
All wheelsmust be
placedin the same
relative positionl
GRASS CATCHER
Stepe
Makecertain bag is
turned right side out
before assembling
(warning label Willbe
on the outside):
WARNING
Never operate mower
unless the hooks on
the grasscatcher are
firmly seated on the
_ivot rod, and the
rear discharge door
rests firmly against
top of the grass
catcher.
WARNING
The blade control
mechanism is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
I Useextreme care
when handling
gasoline.Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive. Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of
ignition.
Keep hands and feet
away from the chute
area on cutting deck.
Referto warning
label on the unit.
Know Your Lawn Mower
Blade Control
Recoil
Starter
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
Starter Rope
Oil Fill
Grass Catcher
Cutting Height
Adjustment Lever
(for each wheel)
Gasoline Fill
Yourmowermaydifferslightly.
Figure 1
Now that you have set up your lawn mower for Recoil Starter
operation, get acquainted with its controls and fea- The recoil starter is attached to the right upper
tures. These are described below and illustrated on handle. Stand behind the unit, depress blade control,
this page. This knowledge will allow you to use your and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.
new equipment to its fullest potential.
Blade Control
The blade control is attached to the upper handle
of the mower. Depress and squeeze it against the
upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop
engine and blade.
__1 WARNING:Thisbladecontrolmecha-
nism is a safetydevice. Neverattempt
to bypass itsoperations.
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers
One adjustment lever is located on each wheel and
is used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers
have to be at the same relative position to ensure a
uniform cut.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine
manual for this. See Figure 1 above for location of the
oil fill.
2. Servicethe enginewithgasolineas instructedinthe
enginemanual. SeeFigure1abovefor locationof
gasfill.
_ ARNING:Useextremecarewhen
handlinggasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors
are explosive. Neverfuel the machine
indoorsor while the engine ishot or
running.Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipesandother sources of ignition.
8
==,
WARNING:The operationof any lawn
mowercan result inforeign objects
being thrownintothe eyes,whichcan
damageyoureyesseverely.Always
wearsafetyglasseswhileoperating
the mower,or while performing any
adjustmentsor repairson it.
Starting Engine
WARNING:Besureno one otherthan
the operatorisstandingnearthe lawn
mowerwhilestartingengine or operat-
ingmower. Neverrun engine indoors
or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monox-
ide,an odorless and deadly gas. Keep
hands,feet, hair and loose clothing
awayfrom any moving partson engine
and lawnmower.
1. Pushprimerthreetimes.Waitabouttwoseconds
betweeneachpush.SeeFigure2. Intemperature
around550F or below,primefive times.Do not prime
to restarta warmengine.
2. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol
againstupperhandle.SeeFigure2.
3. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil
starterhandleand pullropeout witha rapid,continu-
ous,full arm stroke.SeeFigure2. Keepinga firm
grip onthe starterhandle,let the roperewindslowly.
Repeatuntil enginecranks.Letthe roperewindeach
timeslowly.
_L_kl ARNING:Waitfor the blade to stop
completelybefore doing any work
on the mower or to removethe grass
catcher.
Stopping Engine
1. Releasebladecontrolto stoptheengineand blade.
2. Disconnectsparkplugwirefromsparkplugand
groundagainstthe engine.
UsingYour Lawn Mower
_kl= WARNING:Neveroperate your mower
without eitherthe rear door or the entire
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.
Besurelawnis clearof stones,sticks,wire,or other
objectswhichcoulddamagelawnmowerorengine.
Such objectscouldbe accidentlythrownby the mower
in anydirectionandcauseseriouspersonalinjuryto the
operatorandothers.
Figure 2
_klL ARNING:If you strikeaforeign
object, stopthe engine.Remove
wire from the spark plug,thoroughly
inspectmowerfor any damage,and
repairdamage before restarting and
operating. Extensive vibration of
mower during operation is an indica-
tion of damage.The unit should be
promptlyinspectedand repaired.
1. Forbest results,do notcut wetgrass.
2. Fora healthierlawn,nevercut offmorethan one-
thirdof the totallengthof the grass.
Using as Mulcher
Formulchinggrass,removethe grasscatcherfromthe
mower.The reardischargedoorshouldbeclosed.
1. Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wetgrass.
2. Newor thick grassmayrequirea narrowercut.
Adjustgroundspeedaccordingto conditionof lawn.
3. If thegrasshas beenallowedto growinexcessof
4 inches,mulchingis not recommended.Usethe
grasscatcherto bagclippingsinstead.
Using Grass Catcher
Youcan usethe grasscatcherto collectclippingswhile
youareoperatingthe mower.
1. Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionson page
7. Grassclippingswill automaticallycollectinthe
bagas you runthe mower.Operatethe mowertill the
grassbagis full.
2. Stopenginecompletelyby releasingthe blade
controlhandle.Makesurethatthe unit hascometo
a completestop.
3. Liftdischargedoorandpullgrassbagup andaway
fromthe mowerto disposeof the grassclippings.
Mower
WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
inforeign objects
being thrown into
the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasseswhile
operating the mower,
or while performing
any adjustments or
repairs on it.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the lawn
mower while starting
engine or operating
mower. Never run
engine indoorsor
n enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. En-
gineexhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly
gas. Keep hands, feet,
hair and loose clothing
away from any moving
partson engine and
lawn mower.
9
Maintaining
WARNING
A waysstope,g ne;
disconnect spark
plugl andground
against enginebefore
cleaning,lubricating
We do notrecommend
the use of pressure
washers or garden
hoseto cleanyour
unit. These may cause
i
damageto electric
Componentsspindles
pulleys;bearings
the enginel The use
of water will resultin
shortened lifeand
f
6
Figure 3
General Recommendations
1. Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.
2. Thewarrantyon thislawnmowerdoesnot cover
itemsthathavebeensubjectedto operatorabuse
ornegligence.To receivefull valuefromwarranty,
operatormustmaintainthelawn moweras
instructedhere.
3. Changingof engine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.
4. Alladjustmentsshouldbecheckedat leastonce
eachseason.
5. Periodicallycheckallfastenersand makesurethese
aretight.
,_ WARNING: Always stop engine,
disconnect spark plug, and
groundagainst engine before
cleaning, lubricating or doing
any kind of maintenanceon your
machine.
Lubrication
1. Lubricatepivotpointson thebladecontrolhandleat
leastoncea seasonwith lightoil. The bladecontrol
mustoperatefreelyinboth directions.SeeFigure3.
2. Lubricatethe wheelsat leastoncea seasonwith
lightoil (ormotoroil). If wheelsareremovedfor any
reason,lubricatesurfaceof the pivotarm andinner
surfaceof thewheelwithlight oil. SeeFigure3.
3. Lubricatethe torsionspringandpivotpointonthe
reardischargedoorperiodicallywithlightoil to
preventrust.SeeFigure3.
4. Followtheaccompanyingenginemanualfor lubrica-
tion scheduleandinstructionfor enginelubrication.
Deck Care
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use
to prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris.
Follow steps below for this job.
1. Disconnectsparkplugwire.Draingasolinefromlawn
mower,or placea pieceof plasticunderthe gas cap.
2. Tip mowersothat it restsonthe housing.Keepthe
sidewiththe aircleanerfacingup. Hold mowerfirmly.
_ ARNING" Never tip the mower
more than 90 degrees inany
directions and do not leave the
mower tipped for any length of
time. Oil can drain intothe upper
part ofthe engine causing a
starting problem.
3. Scrapeandclean the undersideof the deckwitha
suitabletool.Do notspraywithwater.
4. Putthe mowerbackonitswheelsonthe ground.If
youhadput plasticunderthe gas capearlier,make
sureto removeit now.
Engine Care
A listof keyenginemaintenancejobs requiredfor good
performanceby the moweris given below.Followthe
accompanyingenginemanualfor adetailedlistand
instructions.
1. Maintainoil levelas instructedinenginemanual.
2. Serviceaircleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfewhoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Poorengineperformanceand
floodingusuallyindicatesthatthe aircleanershould
beserviced.Toservicethe aircleaner,referto the
enginemanual.
3. Cleansparkplugand resetthegaponce a season.
Sparkplugreplacementis recommendedat the start
of eachmowingseason.Checkenginemanualfor
correctplugtypeand gapspecifications.
4. Cleanengineregularlywitha clothorbrush.Keepthe
coolingsystem(blowerhousingarea)cleanto permit
properaircirculation.Removeall grass,dirt and
combustibledebrisfrommufflerarea.
10
Blade Care " "
_ ARNING: When removing the
cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect your hands
with a pair of heavy gloves or use
a heavy rag to hold the blade.
Periodicallyinspectthebladeadapterfor cracks,
especiallyif youstrikea foreignobject.Replacewhen
necessary.Followthe stepsbelowfor bladeservice.
1. Disconnectsparkplugwirefromsparkplug.Turn
moweron itsside makingsurethatthe airfilterand
the carburetorareup.
2. Removethe boltandthe bladebellsupportwhich
holdthe bladeand the bladeadapterto the engine
crankshaft.See Figure4.
3. Removebladeandadapterfromthe crankshaft.
4. The bladecan be sharpenedwitha fileor on a grind-
ingwheel.Do notattemptto sharpenthe bladewhileit
isstillonthe mower.
5. Whensharpeningthe blade,followthe originalangle
of grind. Grindeachcuttingedgeequallyto keepthe
bladebalanced.
.
7.
Removebladefromthe adapterfor testingbalance.
Balancethe bladeona roundshaftscrewdriverto
check.Removemetalfromthe heavysideuntil it
balancesevenly.
,__ WARNING: An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive vibration
when rotating at high speeds, it
may cause damage to mower, and
could break causing personal
injury.
8. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftandslide the blade
adapteronto the enginecrankshaft.
9. Placethe bladeon the adaptersuchthatthe side
of the blademarked"Bottom"(orwithpart number)
facesthe groundwhenthe mowerisintheoperating
position.Makesurethatthe bladeisalignedand
seatedon the bladeadapterflanges.
10.Placebladebellsupportonthe blade.Alignnotches
on the bladebell supportwith smallholesinblade.
11.Replacehex boltandtightenhex boltto torque:450
in.Ibs. rain.,600 in. Ibs.max.
Toensuresafeoperationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe bladeboltfor correcttorque.
Replacing Rear Flap
Figure 4
J
Figure 5
1. To removerearflap,cutoff the flatendof the wire
rodwhichsecuresit to the deck.See Figure5.
2. Attachthe newflapand newrodto deck,bending
the endsof the newrodoverto secureto deck.
Off-Season Storage
Thefollowingstepsshouldbetakento prepareyour
lawnmowerfor storage.
1. Cleanandlubricatemowerthoroughlyas described
inthe lubricationinstructions.
2. Wedo not recommendthe use of a pressurewasher
orgardenhoseto cleanyourunit.
3. Referto enginemanualforcorrectengine
storageinstructions.
4. Coatmower'scuttingbladewithchassisgreaseto
preventrusting.
5. Storemowerina dry,cleanarea. Donot storenext
to corrosivematerials,suchas fertilizer.
Whenstoringanytypeof powerequipmentin a poorly
ventilatedor metalstorageshed,careshouldbetaken
to rust-prooftheequipment.Usinga lightoil or silicone,
coattheequipment,especiallycablesandall moving
partsof yourlawnmowerbeforestorage.
Maintaining
Yo ur LaWn
ow er
WARNING
When removing
the cutting blade
for sharpening or
replacement, protect
your handswith a
pair of heavy gloves
or use a heavy ragto
hold the blade.
An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat-
ing at high speeds, it
may cause damage
to mower, and could
break causing per-
sonal injury.
11
repairsbeyond
theminoradjustments
listed here, contact
an authorizedservice
_iiii _ ii _ _ i _ _i _ i
i i i ¸ ! !
i_ i_ _i!: _ i ii _ii__ii_I iiiii_
Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to Start i. Blade controldisengaged. Engage biadecontrol
spark p!ugwiredisconnected: I conBect Wireto Sparkp!ug_
3. Fueltankempty orstalefuel. 3. FiItankwith clean,fresh gasoline.
4. Enginenotchoked. 4. Chokeengineas instructedinthe
OPe[atingYOU[LawnMower section•
5: Faultyspark p ug 5, Clean,adjustgap, or replace.
6. BlOCkedfuel linel 6, cieanfueliinel
7: Engineflooded. 7: Wait afew minutesto iestart,but do
I notprime:
Enginerunserratic 1. Sparkplugwire loose.
2. Blockedfuel lineor stalefuel.
3. Ventingas cap plugged.
4. Wateror dirt infuel system.
5. Dirtyair cleaner.
6. Carburetorout ofadjustment.
1. Connect andtightensparkplugwire.
2. Cleanfuel line; fill tank withclean,
fresh gasoline.
3. Clearvent.
4. Drainfuel tank. Refillwithfresh fuel.
5. Referto enginemanual.
6. Referto enginemanual.
Engine overheats 1 Engineoil levellow. 1. Fillcrankcasewith properoil.
2....A r f ow restrcted I 2 Removebower housngand cean
3. Carburetornotadjustedpropery. 3• Referto engne manua.
Occasional skips 1. Sparkpluggap tooclose. 1. Adjust gapto .030-inch.
(hesitates) at high speed 2. Carburetoridlemixtureadjustment 2. Referto enginemanual.
improperlyset.
Idles poorly 1. Sparkplugfouled,faultyor gaptoo wide. 1. Resetgapto .030-inchor replace
spark pug.
2 Carburetorimproperlyadjusted 2. Referto enginemanual.
. 3. Dirtyair cleaner. 3. Referto engine manual.
Excessive Vibration 1. Cuttingbladelooseor unbalanced. 1. Tighten bladeandadapter.Balance
blade.
2. Bentcutting blade. 2. See anauthorizedservicedealer.
Mower will not mulch grass 1 Wetgrass• 1. Donot mowwhengrass is wet wait
until laterto cut.
2. Excessivelyhighgrass. 2. Mowonce at a highcutting height,
then mowagainatdesirecJheight or
I makea narrowerCuttingpath.
, 3. Du bade. , 3• Sharpenor replaceblade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheelsnotpositionedcorrectly. 1. Placeallfour wheelsin same
heightposition.
2. Dullblade. 2. Sharpenor replaceblade.
12
13
ii i _iI_ii
\
\1)
TreadTypes
BarTread
Zag Tread
23i
I
i
14
1 747-1161A BladeControlHandle
2 749-1092A UpperHandle
3 710-1205 RopeGuide
4 720-0279 WingNut, 1/4-20
5 710-1174 CarriageBolt,5/16-18x 2
6 720-04072 HandStar Knob
7 749-0928A LowerHandle
8 712-0397 WingNut, 1/4-20
9 746-0957 ControlCable- 37.25"
746-1130 ControlCable- 40"
746-0554 ControlCable- 40.5"
746-1137 ControlCable- 53"
10 726-0240 CableTie
11 664-04007A GrassBagAssembly
12 747-04080 GrassBagFrame
13 732-0700 TrailshieldWire
14 731-04998 Trailshield
15 747-04035 RearDoor PivotRod
16 732-04089A TorsionSpringLH
17 731-04134A RearDischargeDoor
18 750-04162 Spacer
19 732-04090A TorsionSpringRH
20 710-04371 Screw,1/4-15x 1.25
21 787-01276 Deck21inch
22 687-02068 HandleBracketAssy- RH
687-02069 HandleBracketAssy- LH
23 687-02075A Height.Adj. Assy.Front- LH
687-02074A HeightAdj.Assy.Front- RH
24 782-5002B FrontBaffle
25 748-0377C BladeAdapter
26 742-0741 Blade
27 736-0524B BladeBellSupport
28 710-1257 Screw,3/8-24x 2.50
29 712-04065 FlangeLockNut,3/8-16
30 787-01290 HeightAdjustmentPlate
31 687-02076A PivotArm Assembly-RH
687-02077A PivotArm Assembly-LH
32 _ FrontWheel
33 738-0507B ShoulderScrew
34 732-0404 SpringLever
35 720-0426 HeightAdjustmentKnob
36 687-02071A PivotArm Assembly-RH
687-02070A PivotArm Assembly-LH
37 732-04175 SpringLever
38 738-04136 ShoulderScrew
39 _ RearWheel
40 710-1652 Screw,1/4-20x.625
HairpinClip
RearHandleBracket- RH
RearHandleBracket- LH
CarriageBolt,1/4-20
RearBaffle
TT Screw,3/8-16x 1
41 714-0104
42 787-01292
787-01291
43 710-0703
44 731-04150C
45 710-0654A
1 if equipped
Referto WheelChart
Type Tread
Wheelsw/o bearing Bar
Bar
Bar
Wheelsw/BB Zag
Zag
_:Wheel Chart
Part No.
734-1781,8 x 1.8Slot HubGray
734-1987,8 x 1.8SpokeGray
734-1988,7 x 1.8SpokeGray
734-2004A,8 x 2 DiscHub
734-2005A,8 x 2
15
PartS List
iii_ii_ii_iiI_ ii_i ii_i_i_ _i iii_
To order replacement
parts;contact
1_800_800'7310
or visit
www, rntdproducts,com
MANUFACTURER'S LiMiTED WARRANTY FOR
The limitedwarrantysetforthbelowisgivenby MTDLLCwithrespect
to newmerchandisepurchasedandusedin the UnitedStates,its
possessionsandterritories.
"MTD"warrantsthisproductagainstdefectsinmaterialandworkman-
shipfor a periodof two (2)yearscommencingonthe date of original
purchaseandwill,at itsoption,repairor replace,freeof charge,any
part foundto bedefectiveinmaterialsorworkmanship.Thislimitedwar-
rantyshallonlyapply if thisproducthasbeenoperatedand maintained
inaccordancewiththe Operator'sManualfurnishedwiththe product,
andhas notbeensubjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse,neglect,
accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft,fire,water,
ordamagebecauseof otherperilor naturaldisaster.Damageresulting
fromthe installationor useof any part,accessoryor attachmentnot
approvedby MTDfor use withthe product(s)coveredbythis manual
willvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearpartsarewarrantedto befree fromdefectsinmaterialand
workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30)daysfromthe dateof purchase.
Normalwearpartsinclude,butare notlimitedto itemssuchas: batter-
ies,belts,blades,bladeadapters,grassbags,riderdeckwheels,seats,
snowthrowerskidshoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberandtires.
NOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,WITH
PROOFOF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,
or contact MTD LLC at RO. Box 361131,Cleveland, Ohio 44136-
0019, or call 1-800-800-7310or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our
Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
Thislimitedwarrantydoesnotprovidecoverageinthe followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentpartsthereof.Theseitemsmaycarrya
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Refertoapplicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsandconditions.
b. Logsplitterpumps,valves,andcylindershavea separateoneyear
warranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuchas lubricants,filters,blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck
adjustments,andnormaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinishdueto
useor exposure.
d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthananauthorizedservice
dealer.
e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsandterritories,except
thosesoldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsofexportdistribution.
f. ReplacementpartsthatarenotgenuineMTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesandservicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarrantyof mer-
chantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the
applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the
partsas identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwritten or
oral, except as mentioned above,givenby any personor entity,
includinga dealeror retailer, withrespect to any product,shall
bindMTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy
isrepairor replacementof the productas setforth above.
Theprovisionsas set forth inthis warrantyprovidethe soleand
exclusiveremedy arising from the sale.MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentiallossor damage including,without
limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn
careservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea
warranted product.
Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationsonhowlongan impliedwarranty
lasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.
Innoeventshallrecoveryof any kindbegreaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safetyfeatures of
the product shallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liability
for loss,damage,or injuryto you andyourpropertyand/orto othersand
theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilitytousethe product.
Thislimitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginal
purchaserorto the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY:This limited
warrantygivesyou specificlegalrights,and youmayalsohaveother
rightswhichvaryfromstateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683
